Manila Water Philippine Ventures (MWPV) said Monday it reached out to the provincial government of Pangasinan (PGP) to explore the revival of the botched concession agreement.
PGP and the consortium of MWPV said they remain open to explore partnership on water supply for the province even after the concession agreement was deemed mutually terminated at the close of 2023.
This presents an opportunity to revisit the conditions precedent of the old contract and renew partnership for the benefit of Pangasinenses, MWPV said in a statement.
Pangasinan, as one of the most populous provinces in the Philippines with a total population of 3,163,190, is considered as a haven for investments.
Both parties recognize that adequate water infrastructure is vital to support the province’s economic growth. Manila Water non-east zone chief operating officer Melvin Tan said the company continues to expand its footprints in the country’s top metropolitan cities, including Pangasinan.
The company has an operating unit in Calasiao, a municipality in Pangasinan, which was established through a 25-year joint venture agreement with the Calasiao Water District.
Calasiao Water is undertaking the development, rehabilitation, financing, operation, management and maintenance of water facilities in the town to serve more than 95,000 people of 24 barangays.
Pangasinan Governor Ramon Guico III said during his inaugural speech that he is eyeing the establishment of more economic zones in the province to boost the economy, saying that a vibrant economy also means more job opportunities for Pangasinenses.